On 16 December 2024, Deputy Chief of Mission MATSUDA Kenichi attended the handover ceremony for the project “Enhancing and Sustaining Peace and Security Mechanisms in Mindanao” in JPST Munai, Lanao del Norte. The ceremony was attended by Presidential Assistant on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Mr. David Diciano, Philippine Joint Peace and Security Committee (GPH JPSC) Co-Chair Major General Francisco Ariel Felicidario III, Moro Islamic Liberation Front Joint Peace and Security Committee (MILF JPSC) Co-Chair and Bangsamoro Senior Minister Abunawas “Von Al Haq” Maslamama, AFP Commander of the 1st Infantry Division Major General Gabriel Viray, Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Director PBGEN Jaysen Carpio de Guzman, and International Organization for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission Ms. Tristan Burnett.
The Government of Japan provided a USD 2.58 million grant for the support of the peacebuilding and security activities of the Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPSTs) in the Bangsamoro region, which has been implemented by the IOM. As part of this grant, four JPST stations, the structures of which were damaged due to natural disasters in recent years, have been rehabilitated. Six stations were also equipped with new solar power systems and improved water systems for more efficient operations. In addition, vehicles and motorcycles were provided for faster travel and more timely response. Moreover, communications and logistics toolkits including but not limited to satellite network devices, handheld radios, first aid responder kits, and trauma bags have been supplied to all JPST stations, including JPST Munai, to enhance the communications between stations for better implementation of community engagement and aid activities.
Following its launch in February 2024, the project also supported the development of training modules on community engagement and safeguarding for JPST members and implementation of Training of Trainers (TOT). It also provided socioeconomic support for adjacent MILF communities to promote inclusive and sustainable livelihood activities. This year–long project is expected to positively impact all 24 JPSTs comprised of approximately 720 members and the communities where the JPSTs are located.